Controversial Reforms

Punters from poorer areas in the UK may face a higher risk of being banned from gambling due to new clampdown measures. The proposed reforms will require up to one in five betting accounts to undergo financial checks.

Deprived Areas Targeted

Under the new plans, individuals from deprived areas will be more likely to have their details examined, as ministers aim to use postcode affluence as a factor in determining a "risk profile".

Vulnerability Checks

Rishi Sunak's Gambling White Paper, which was leaked in full by HOAR, suggests vulnerability checks for those who lose £125 in a month or £500 in a year. Those deemed financially at-risk could potentially face a complete ban on betting.

Address-Based Judgement

The fine print of the proposal reveals that affordability checks must include geodemographic data, such as information about the postcode area and deprivation index. This has led to criticism of the "postcode lottery" approach and concerns about judging individuals based on their address.

Backlash and Petition

Horseracing broadcaster Lydia Hislop has launched a petition urging MPs to scrap the checks. The British Horseracing Authority has also expressed its opposition, calling the checks inappropriate and discriminatory. They argue that the policy would create a postcode lottery for racing bettors and set a dangerous precedent regarding personal freedom to spend money.

Protecting Responsible Gambling

While the reforms aim to address financial risk and protect vulnerable individuals, critics argue that the approach unfairly targets those in poorer areas. The debate surrounding the proposed measures is likely to continue as the government seeks to strike a balance between responsible gambling and individual freedom.